Fake News: Home

Introduction

As recent politics have made abundantly clear, news (i.e., a report of current events) might not be as true as it appears. At the same time, mass media play an increasingly significant role in today’s society. More than ever, we need to consciously and critically analyze and evaluate mass media messages, such as the news, and then decide how to respond. This guide provides resources that can help you and your community be savvy media consumers and producers -- and be an informed and contributing citizen. Don't get faked out by the news.

What Is Fake News?

Fake news is deliberate, publicly published disinformation/hoax/lie purported to be real news.

Almost a quarter of adults have shared a made-up news story, according to a Pew Research Center study. That study also found that two-thirds of adults say that fake news leads them to be confused about basic facts of current news, although more than three-quarters feel at least somewhat confident about being able to recognize fake news.

A 2016 research study by Stanford faculty focused on students’ news-literacy tasks, and found that middle and high school students, and even some in college, have trouble distinguishing which online resources are credible.

What are consequences of fake news?

When people believe fake news, they are misinformed, and may make poor decisions. When people don't know what to believe, they may become frustrated, polarized, confused, fearful, distrustful, cynical, and withdrawn. None of this helps society.